Squid, Longfin (Ika) – U.S. Atlantic, Bottom Trawl

Longfin squid are fast growing and short-lived, which enable them to withstand moderate fishing pressure. Abundance of Longfin Squid in the U.S. Atlantic is currently around target levels.

Historically, the domestic fishery for Longfin Squid was small, but the exclusion of foreign squid boats from U.S. waters and increases in international demand for squid have fostered an expansion in the U.S. fishery. Longfish Squid are caught with bottom trawls over sandy/muddy habitats. The fishing method results in moderate damage to the seafloor habitats. However, the biggest concern in the fishery is the bycatch of highly vulnerable marine mammals and sea turtles.